Epson Launches SureColor® F3070 DTG Printer

Long Beach, Calif.-based Epson America Inc. has introduced the SureColor® F3070, its first industrial DTG printer. The machine is designed for high-production printshops with reliability and performance in mind. According to Epson, the SureColor F3070 features a new 2.6-inch PrecisionCore® dual printhead and a bulk ink pack system for low ink cost and minimized waste compared to Epson’s cartridge systems. Additional features include an automatic garment height adjustment and easy user maintenance. SureColor F3070 is capable of printing custom garments in a variety of fiber types such as cotton, linen and rayon.

“The printed textile market is seeing tremendous growth, complemented by new printing
technology innovation,” said Tim Check, senior product manager, Professional Imaging, Epson America. “We are committed to driving the digital textile market and excited to expand Epson’s award-winning product line to deliver our first industrial direct-to-garment printer for high-production print shops. Designed for mid-to-large size garment printers looking for a high-production, cost-effective equipment, the SureColor F3070 can produce
a full-size shirt in about a minute, allowing shops to print hundreds of shirts per day.”

January/February 2020

Textil del Valle Selects Kornit Digital DTG Printer

Israel-based Kornit Digital reports Textil del Valle South America, a vertically integrated garment manufacturer based in Peru, has added Kornit’s direct-to-garment (DTG) digital printer to its 1.1-million-square-foot facility.

“Kornit’s sustainable print technology provides the last piece of the puzzle, so we have the ‘full package’ for manufacturing the garment itself, imprinting it on demand based on the customer need, and shipping it ourselves, all from a single location,” said Juan Jose Cordova, general manager at Textil del Valle. “Our market has been veering away from stocking shelves with inventory that may or may not sell, and the Kornit solution helps our business and customers eliminate that uncertainty and risk.”

January/February 2020

Benninger Acquires LAB-PRO

Benninger AG recently acquired LAB-PRO GmbH, a producer of dyeing machines, dosing systems, hydro-extractors and laboratory equipment. Both companies are based in Switzerland, and Benninger is a sister company of Jakob Müller AG and 100-percent owned by Jakob Müller Holding AG. The move integrates LAB-PRO’s discontinuous dyeing technology — including the FabricMaster jet-dyeing machine, JigMaster jigger and BeamMaster high-temperature beam dyeing machine — into Benninger’s portfolio.

LAB-PRO founders Thomas Widmer and Thomas Gerhard will continue to lead the company as managing directors.

January/February 2020

January/February 2020

Eqodry USA, Elon, N.C., recently launched a line of thermally reticulated smart foam products to the U.S. market. Eqodry® — pronounced E-Co-Dri — allows water to pass through for zero water retention and fast drying times, which makes it suitable for outdoor furniture and marine applications where moisture can shorten the foam’s lifespan.

Dalton, Ga.-based Shaw Industries Group Inc. reports its Adairsville, Ga., carpet tile manufacturing and recycling facility has achieved the USGBC’s LEED Silver designation.

TenCate Protective Fabrics, Union City, Ga., reports its family of products for the Fire Service market now is OEKO-TEX® Standard 100 certified.

A collection of Duvaltex’s CLEAN IMPACT TEXTILE™

Duvaltex, Québec, Canada, has migrated its True, Victor and Teknit brands to the Duvaltex name. Its Guilford of Maine brand will remain independent.

Biobased Xorel, a textile sourced from sugar cane developed by New York City-based Carnegie Fabrics LLC, is the first textile product to achieve Living Product Challenge Certification.

The Paris-based French Textile Equipment Manufacturers’ Association (UCMTF) has introduced a new modernized logo, which features the blue, red and white colors of
the French Flag.

The Industrial Fabrics Association international (IFAI), Roseville, Minn., is taking entries for the 2020 Student Design Competition. Students may submit entries in advanced textiles or fabric structures categories before May 15, 2020. A first-place winner in each category will be awarded a prize pack valued at more than $6,000, which includes a trip to IFAI Expo 2020, the 100th anniversary of the show. Visit ifai.com/student-design-challenge for more information.

Germany-based Hohenstein Institute has developed a new method using dynamic image analysis for quantifying microfiber shedding from textiles. The research, published in an article by lead researcher Jasmin Haap, took four years. The resulting analytical method quantifies fiber count, length, diameter and shape; and can also offer insight on cellulosic and non-cellulosic fibers. Such analysis now is available exclusively through Hohenstein.

YKK’s QuickFree® zipper

The QuickFree® zipper engineered by Japan-based YKK Group was recognized in the “Personal” category of the 2019 GOOD DESIGN® Awards presented by The Chicago Athenaeum. The zipper features improved operability and a unique release function aimed to promote a sense of independence, accomplishment and security in small children.

The Felix Schoeller Group, Germany, is celebrating its 125th anniversary. Today, the family-owned company employs approximately 3,600 employees at 12 facilities where it produces specialty papers including digital printing papers and décor papers.

Americhem, Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio, has released its 2021 Color Trends. The palette, based on a theme of “Self Care,” features four color stories — Adventures That Spark You, It’s The Little Things, Treat Yourself and Hitting The Reset Button. To access the full color trends presentation, contact an Americhem representative at Americhem.com/
contact.

AKAS Tex, Bensalem, Pa., now is a licensed provider of Cotton Incorporated’s TransDRY™ finishing technology. The patented high-tech application manages moisture in natural fabrics to wick it away from the body.

Messe Frankfurt Hong Kong has announced three textile fairs scheduled to take place March 11-12, 2020, at the National Exhibition and Convention Center in Shanghai, will be postponed because of the Novel Coronavirus outbreak. The impacted fairs are Intertextile Shanghai Apparel Fabrics – Spring Edition, Yarn Expo Spring, and Intertextile Shanghai Home Textiles – Spring Edition.

January/February 2020

Monforts Customer Rajby Textiles Is World’s First To Achieve Cradle To Cradle (C2C) Platinum Standard For A Product

MÖNCHENGLADBACH, Germany — February 12, 2020 — Monforts customer Rajby Textiles is the first company in the world to have finally achieved the Cradle to Cradle (C2C) Platinum Standard for a product.

Its Beluga denim fabrics have gained the ultimate sustainability score in all five categories covered by the C2C standard, which is acknowledged as involving the toughest and most thorough testing and assessment it is possible to put a product through.

As such, Beluga denim fabric is based on 100-percent GOTS certified organic cotton and employs no hazardous chemicals in its production. At the same time, it is both recyclable and biodegradable, with 100 percent of the energy used in its production offset by green energy and involving a closed loop system with no waste water generated and no material wastage.

Until now, no company has been able to achieve a Platinum rating for ANY product across all ten separate product areas in the C2C programme, which was first introduced in 2005.

Circular economy

The C2C Certified Product Standard guides designers and manufacturers through a continual improvement process, aiming to achieve a circular economy approach. The five quality categories on which products are graded are Material Health, Material Reutilization, Renewable Energy and Carbon Management, Water Stewardship and Social Fairness.

A product receives an achievement level in each of these categories — Basic, Bronze, Silver, Gold or Platinum — with the lowest achievement level representing the product’s overall mark.

The criteria at each level builds towards the expectation of eliminating all toxic and unidentified chemicals, and the products breaking back down to nutrients after use, top establish a safe, continuous cycle.

Golds

So far, the C2C Certified Product Registry lists 612 separate products, with 113 being Gold standard.

Rajby has already achieved Gold for its Greenmystery and Blue Magic denim fabrics and three other Monforts denim companies based in Pakistan have also achieved Gold to date – Artistic Fabric and Garment Industries for Earthmatics denims, Artistic Milliners for Dylan denim fabrics and Soorty, for both its Pure D and Smart Loop ranges.

The new Beluga denim fabrics, however, represent a new zenith in circular denim production.

To meet the active cycling requirement, Rajby has committed to using Beluga denim fabric exclusively in apparel products sold by retailers with take back programs in place and estimated expected cycling rates for such products. Rajby collaborated with C&A, which led the research and quantification for this initial certification through its We Take it Back programme and will track active cycling rates through it.

The fabrics range from 4oz to 13oz in weights in a range of different woven constructions.

Advanced technology

With a 10,000-strong workforce, Karachi-headquartered Rajby Textiles has a monthly production of 3.2 million meters of denim and 1.3 million finished garments and sustainability is at the top of its agenda.

Its advanced technology includes a Monforts denim finishing range comprising washing compartments, padder, a weft straightener, cylinder dryers, a levelling field, a compressive shrinking unit, felt calender, inspection table and an outlet combination. With a working width of two meters, the complete installation has a length of 42 meters.

“When we started working for C2C Gold certification it wasn’t easy, because the requirements are very tough,” says Safdar Shah, who led the C2C project team at Rajby. “We worked very hard to create a completely green supply chain and we also modified our machines and processes to meet the standard, going beyond what was required and creating a 100% closed loop process, including Zero Waste Water Discharge Dyeing (ZDD)  and Zero Waste Water Discharge Finishing (ZDF).

“As a result, we have reduced the load of our biological ETP water effluent plant by approximately 99 percent, since we are not discharging a single drop of water in the entire process. The fabrics are named after the Beluga whale and dedicated to preserving ocean life.”

Igatex 2020

Experts from Monforts will be on hand to discuss the latest technologies for sustainable denim finishing at the forthcoming IGATEX International Exhibition for Garments, Textiles and Accessories which takes place in Lahore, Pakistan, from July 1-4 2020.

In the latest short film released on the Monforts YouTube Channel — captured at the recent Denim Première Vision show in London — some of the leading global manufacturers discuss their initiatives for more sustainable denim production.

The Monforts Denim PV film can be viewed by visiting the Monforts website at www.monforts.de/en/latest-news-media/

Posted February 12, 2020

Source: A. Monforts Textilmaschinen GmbH & Co. KG

Early Bird Pricing Ends February 18 For Techtextil North America & Texprocess Americas 2020

ATLANTA — February 12, 2020 — There less than one week remaining to purchase early bird tickets for the upcoming editions of Techtextil North America & Texprocess Americas, once again co-located in Atlanta from May 12-14, 2020. Prices will increase on Tuesday, February 18, 2020 at 11:59pm ET.

Tickets to the Official Techtextil North America & Texprocess Americas Reception, Symposiums and Sustainability Forum are all currently available at a reduced rate with early bird pricing. Tickets to these events are limited and likely to sell out.

Each show-specific symposium features eight paid sessions on various topics and can be purchased through a one, two or three day pass, and the all-new, Sustainability Forum will feature companies leading the charge on sustainable manufacturing in a two-part format. While the full 60+ speaker lineup has not been released, this year’s sessions will include speakers from:

Techtextil North America Symposium

  • Georgia Tech’s School of Materials Science and Engineering;
  • Natick Soldier Research Center;
  • Freudenberg Performance Materials; and
  • Kimberly Clark.

 Texprocess Americas Symposium

  • Bluewater Defense;
  • The University of Georgia’s Department of Textiles, Merchandising & Interiors;
  • Target; and
  • Lab141.

Sustainability Forum

  • Nike;
  • Sustainable Textile Solutions;
  • ZDHC; and
  • Eton Systems.

For additional tiered pricing information, deadlines, and session offerings, visit www.techtextilna.com or www.texprocessamericas.com.

Techtextil North America is incorporated with ATME-I. Texprocess Americas is coproduced by SPESA.

Posted February 12, 2020

Source: Messe Frankfurt North America

Chomarat, Shortlisted For A JEC Innovation Awards With G-FLOW™, A Structural Flow Media Developed In Partnership With Groupe Beneteau

PARIS — February 4, 2020 — Chomarat Group is a finalist of the JEC Innovation Awards in the Maritime Transportation & Shipbuilding category. The Group developed G-FLOW™ 980L, a structural flow media with 100-percent glass fiber for use in boat production using the resin infusion process, in collaboration with Groupe Beneteau. “The challenge was to develop a fabric with high permeability in all directions that can be integrated into the structure of large composite parts without damaging their mechanical characteristics, while reducing infusion process costs. And we succeeded, thanks to our collaborative work and long term partnership with Groupe Beneteau team,” explains Claude Chabal, product manager at Chomarat.

The result? An innovative design which brings unprecedented flow performance and superior mechanical properties.

Towards Greener Composite Materials

In addition to lightweighting, the use of G-FLOW reinforcement in the resin infusion process reduces the impact on health and the environment, through a reduction in consumables and waste: 50% fewer consumables used for resin supply networks compared with previous solutions and a 7% reduction in resin consumption, offering better cycle time as well as labour and material costs savings.

Besides, G-FLOW can replace any flow media in large-scale parts using the resin infusion process for the same mechanical properties, offering two products in one. “G-FLOW™ 980L meets all our expectations: isotropic permeability, mechanical performance and overall cost savings,” adds Damien Barre, Head of Project for composite materials R&D at Groupe Beneteau.

Increasing The Use Of The Infusion Process

With this new solution, Chomarat facilitates and reduces the costs of large composite parts using the resin infusion process and thereby helps to develop the use of infusion with these specifications. “Closed mold and particularly infusion process ensure a better part consistency and repeatability and provide better working conditions,” says Vincent Cholvy, Marine Market Manager at Chomarat.

G-FLOW, a patented solution by Chomarat, has been used in more than 500 boats (15 models) since 2018 and can be applied to different parts and new ranges.
“We hope to win this award, as it represents true recognition from the profession for our innovation!” he concludes.

Posted February 12, 2020

Source: Chomarat

Custom Color Masterbatch Designer And Manufacturer Americhem Launches New Website

CUYAHOGA FALLS, Ohio — February 12, 2020 — Americhem, a globally recognized designer and manufacturer of custom color masterbatch, functional additives, engineered compounds, and performance technologies, has launched a brand new website that aligns with their brand and global competencies at americhem.com.

Americhem’s new website provides customers, potential hires, and all those interested in Americhem with a smooth, cohesive, and enjoyable new digital experience. With all of Americhem’s growth over the past few years, which included multiple acquisitions, plant expansions, and new product offerings, a new website was in order to clearly state all the company has to offer from a global perspective. Now streamlined to find product and service offerings from all of Americhem’s business units, the new website will guide users to the perfect polymeric solution in fibers, automotive, healthcare, building & construction, packaging, and so much more.

Americhem’s CEO, Matthew Hellstern, stated: “Today is a very exciting day for us here at Americhem as we are launching our new website. This is our new window to the world and our new site exhibits everything exciting about Americhem. The site highlights how Americhem is an innovation leader, the breadth of our product offerings, and how we partner with our customers in developing innovative, differentiated, and sustainable polymeric solutions.”

Americhem’s New Website Advantages:

  • Ease of navigation;
  • Examples of work;
  • Cutting edge technologies;
  • Up-to-date blog with new and noteworthy content; and
  • Contact Us form that links you with the right expert for your inquiry.

Posted February 12, 2020

Source: Americhem

The FilamentFactory Launches Type 712 Recycled Polyester

BAD HERSFELD, Germany — February 10, 2020 — The FilamentFactory (TFF) has introduced a new product line of recycled polyester high-strength multifilament yarns. Made from post-consumer polyethylene terephthalate (PET) waste, the Type 712 R-PET is characterized by very high strength and good dyeing properties.

For the new Type 712 R-PET product line, raw materials are used which are 100-percent recycled from post-consumer PET waste, mainly from PET bottles, thus closing the loop between the end consumer and yarn production.

TFF and our raw material suppliers have been certified with the globally recognized GRS certificate (Global Recycled Standard).

By taking this step, we are making our contribution to preserving resources and protecting the environment by reducing and reusing PET waste worldwide.

The properties of the Type 712 R-PET are comparable to those of the virgin Type 712 PET yarns, both in terms of processing and fastnesses.

Strengths of 68 cN/tex at an elongation at break of 16.0 percent and free shrinkage values (180°C; 15min) below 5 percent are achieved, making it possible to manufacture textiles with special properties. In addition, individual customer requirements can be tailor-made.

The new yarn family will be available in titers from 76 dtex up to 6600 dtex and, if required, will also be available with twist levels starting from S/Z60.

Thanks to the two-stage manufacturing process, properties such as shrinkage, specific strength/stretch are extremely constant.

Type 712 R-PET shows — thanks to the unique manufacturing process — significantly lower strength loss compared to other recycled PET yarns on the market.

Applications for these new R-PET high-strength filament yarns include sewing threads, technical applications, textile architecture, tents, silos, tarpaulins, aerospace, automotive and many more.

“With our initiative to produce recycled PET yarns, we are not only creating a valuable addition to our product portfolio, but also helping to protect the environment by reducing PET waste and CO² emissions,” said Yasar Kiray, business development manager, TFF.

Posted February 12, 2020

Source: The Filament Factory

Baldwin Technology Appoints Joe Kline As New President And CEO

Kline

ST. LOUIS — February 11, 2020 — The leadership team of Baldwin Technology Co. Inc. has appointed Joe Kline as its new president and CEO, effective January 17, 2020. Baldwin is a  manufacturer of innovative process-automation technology for the printing, packaging and converting industries. Acting CEO Kyle Chapman will continue as Baldwin’s chairman, and devote greater focus to BW Forsyth Partners’ rapidly expanding portfolio. In 2012, Forsyth acquired then-public Baldwin and took it private.

“After a rigorous search and vetting process, it became apparent that Joe is a perfect fit, with the vision and flexibility to lead Baldwin and to take advantage of the significant opportunity we have to serve the industry,” said Chapman. “Joe is a seasoned leader who is highly people-focused — which fits perfectly into both our corporate culture, and into building long-term positive relationships with customers.”

Prior to joining Baldwin, Kline served as the president of a division in Eaton’s electrical sector. In addition, his previous experience includes commercial leadership roles at Eaton, Duke Manufacturing and Emerson. He holds a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering from Ohio University and an MBA in international business from Saint Louis University.

“Joe is a proven business leader with a robust track record of identifying and developing growth opportunities through his strong commercial orientation,” Chapman continued. “He will help us get closer to our customers. I’m excited about the innovative solutions that he will help us develop and grow to support our customers as they further unlock their potential.”

When asked about what attracted him to Baldwin, Kline remarked: “Baldwin has an impressive and growing collection of connected technologies under one roof, and I’m excited to partner with our global organization to bring these comprehensive solutions to our global markets and customers. I look forward to engaging with our customers around the world to strengthen our product and service capabilities, and to build upon Baldwin’s rich heritage of delivering product and service solutions that help our customers improve their operations.”

Kline’s appointment follows the 2019 appointments of four Baldwin business segment presidents: Rich Bennett at AMS Spectral UV, Tomas Anderbjer at Baldwin Precision Applications, Vince Balistrieri at Baldwin Vision Systems, and Matt Shishikura at Baldwin Japan.

Posted February 11, 2020

Source: Baldwin Technology Company Inc.

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